Patrons of the Licking County Historical Society got a taste of "giggle water," old fashion music, and stories of the past last Saturday at the fundraising event, Secrets of the Speakeasy: Prohibition in Licking County.

Though it's unknown to many, Licking County was actually a hot spot for speakeasies and other illicit liquor stores during the time of prohibition. Newark alone was home to 32 known speakeasies, which earned it the nickname "Little Chicago" and "Sin City."

It is estimated that over 80 salons could be found in Licking County by the 1800's, according historical society board member Linda Leffel.

In fact, Licking County residents of the past were so loyal to their liquor, that some even had their wages paid with it.

A 1905 map of known speakeasies located around downtown Newark.(Photo: Kate Dengg)

Members of the Historical Society had the opportunity to taste some of these much sought after drinks of yesteryear over the weekend.

The Buckingham Meeting House's lawn was set up with five different tasting booths, each offering a different drink to satisfy every drinker's preferred taste.

For those that like a stronger drink, there was Highball, made with scotch whiskey and club soda. Bee's Knees, a gin, lemon and honey concoction, and the vodka mixed drink, Prohibition Punch, were provided to those that preferred something a little sweeter.

Every drink was also served with a little known story about prohibition in Licking County.

Among one of the stories was how, in 1923, B.G. Dawes, co-founder of Dawes Arboretum, was found with $10,000 worth of alcohol — about $144,000 today's cash —locked in his basement.

Ryan Worbs, a former board member of the Licking County Historical Society, poses outside with the traditional "We Want Beer" sign brandished during prohibition times.(Photo: Kate Dengg)

Prohibition officers raided his property, which would become the famous Dawes Arboretum just six years later, after neighbors complained about a rowdy late-night party. It's then that they found the alcohol hidden in the cellar.

After an investigation, Dawes plead guilty, paid $1,000 (what would be $14,000 today), and had every drop of his alcohol returned to him.

The historical Sherwood-Davidson House Museum was also open for the crowd to view. In accordance with the night's theme, the whole house was garbed in decorations fit for the Roaring 20's. Flapper dresses and old-time suits, provided by the Webb House, were on display and each room was set up with traditional 20's decor.

The house museum will maintain its 20's theme through the end of the summer for public viewing. The Sherwood-Davidson Museum is open every Tuesday and Thursday, and most Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Interested individuals can also schedule an appointment to view the museum by calling 740-403-3060.

The Rocky Fork Old Time String Band played a few old-fashion tunes in The Buckingham Meeting House.(Photo: Kate Dengg)

After enjoying their taste of alcohol in the courtyard, the crowd was invited back inside The Buckingham Meeting House to enjoy some crab cakes and deviled eggs, as well as a few old fashion tunes from Licking County's own Rocky Fork Band.

This is the first time the Licking County Historical Society had hosted a fundraiser like this. According board member Leslie Wagner, they wanted to hold an event that would appeal to both members and non-members alike.

The group's next event will be 6th Annual Gold Outing at Moundbuilders County Club at 1 p.m. on August 20th.

For more information on this and future events or to become a member of the Licking County Historical Society, visit lchsohio.org.